Rapid Response Team Model

When a patient's health starts to decline, early treatment is critical for survival. Rapid Response Teams at The University of Kansas Health System quickly intervene before a code is called to improve patient outcomes. Approximately 90 percent of patients who receive care from these special teams survive to discharge.

A model for success

The University of Kansas Health System originally established a Rapid Response Team in 2005 as part of the 100,000 Lives Campaign. Our goal was to have these teams in place so patients could be treated quickly if their health deteriorated. Any staff member could call the RRT for fast, immediate action.

Improving care

Since the initial launch, we have taken additional steps to improve our RRT programs. Our health system is among only a few other hospitals in the U.S. that encourage patients and family members to call on the RRT. Through printed materials and discussions with our staff, we teach visitors to identify early signs of decline and encourage them to seek help.

Another way we have improved the RRT model is by expanding care to not only patients in the hospital, but anyone located on campus. This includes outpatient clinics, lobbies and parking structures. Doing so ensures that patients receive care as soon as it is needed, rather than having to wait for a 911 call response.

This video brings to life the innovative deployment of the response team model at The University of Kansas Health System. We took the best components of the Rapid Response Team and Code Team models and expanded them well beyond their typical boundaries. The result – more lives saved.

Expanding boundaries

Our health system took the best components of the Rapid Response Team and Code Team models and expanded them well beyond their typical boundaries. We replicated these models and put in place eight teams to provide urgent specialized care to our patients. These teams include: